Wednesday, Feb. 08, 2012

Stephens School students celebrate magic of storytelling

Kindergarten students, many dressed as their favorite storybook character, along with their families, joined the fun at Stephens School's first "The Kingdom of Reading" Family Fun Night last Friday.

Students and their guests were met by the Royal Storyteller, Ashley Miller, as they entered the Kingdom of Reading.

Later in the evening the Royal Storyteller shared a variety of books with the children.

One of the favorite stations was the "Cupcake Walk."

The cupcakes, each individually wrapped, were made by Stephens School teachers.

In the cafeteria children could write their own fairy tale, decorate a crown, create a reading wand and participate in nursery rhyme time.

The event was held in conjunction with the Scholastic Book Fair.

The library was packed throughout the evening as children and parents selected books to buy.

Besides the activities led by teachers, staff and parent volunteers, there were hot dogs, balloons and a clown, all with reading as the main focus.

Around 450 people signed the guest book at the school's first Kingdom of Reading event.

Stephens School Principal Kristi Ariaz said the goal of the event was to provide an opportunity for families to spend time together doing literacy activities.

"We were tremendously pleased with the turnout," she said.